Collectively, the US government is the largest single employer in America, filling approximately 1.6 million full-time, permanent positions; however, in reality, the US government consists of several hundred smaller employers, each of which has its own individual function and culture. As a result, the opportunities offered by government jobs are wide ranging, and the needs are diverse.

In times of economic hardship and downsizing, a science or engineering job with the US government is by comparison secure and accompanied by less pressure to obtain funding and grants than a job in academia. In addition, a lower risk of layoffs may exist there than in industry. Add to that the competitive benefits and salary, the learning opportunities, and the diverse working environments at various institutions, and a position with the US government can make an attractive proposition, , , read the entire article at: http://sciencecareers.sciencemag.org/career_magazine/previous_issues/articles/2009_10_23/science.opms.r0900081

Written by: By Emma Hitt

Posted: 10/28/2009 by Judy Brobst from Science Careers on line magazine